Sign up to receive free email alerts when patent applications with chosen keywords are publishedSIGN UP

Abstract:

A dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: a cover; a movable compartment
translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and a
cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment.
A piece of integrated entertainment equipment in a vehicle includes: a
dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on the integrated
entertainment equipment; and an actuator coupled with at least one of a
side of the integrated entertainment equipment and the movable
compartment, the actuator being operable to translate the movable
compartment. A method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes:
receiving an input signal to translate a movable compartment of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second position with
respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar; and linearly
translating the movable compartment to the second position according to
the input signal.

Claims:

1. A dynamic chilled mini-bar comprising: a cover; a movable compartment
translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and a
cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment.

2. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising: a
beverage tray disposed within the movable compartment, wherein the
cooling device is thermally coupled with the beverage tray through an
opening at a bottom of the movable compartment.

3. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 2, wherein the cooling device
cools a surface of the beverage tray to cool the interior of the movable
compartment.

4. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 2, wherein the beverage tray is
constructed of a thermally conductive material.

5. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising: a
controller operable to control the cooling device to maintain about a
preset temperature in the interior of the movable compartment.

6. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, wherein the cooling device
comprises a thermoelectric cooling module comprising: at least one
thermoelectric cooling device operable to cool the interior of the
movable compartment; a fan operable to circulate air from outside the at
thermoelectric cooling module to the at least one thermoelectric cooling
device to reject heat from the thermoelectric cooling module to the
outside; and a temperature controller operable to control an amount of
power delivered to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device.

7. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 1, further comprising: an
actuator operable to translate the movable compartment.

8. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 7, further comprising: a
controller that controls the actuator to linearly translate the movable
compartment from a first position to a second position, wherein the
second position is selected from the group consisting of completely
stowed position, completely opened position, and partially opened
position.

9. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 8, wherein when the movable
compartment is in the completely stowed position, the interior of the
movable compartment is completely behind the cover.

10. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 8, wherein when the movable
compartment is in the completely opened position, a majority of the
interior of the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover.

11. The dynamic chilled mini-bar of claim 10, wherein when the movable
compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the interior of
the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the
movable compartment is in the completely opened position.

12. A piece of integrated entertainment equipment in a vehicle, the piece
of integrated entertainment equipment comprising: a dynamic chilled
mini-bar movably installed on the integrated entertainment equipment, the
dynamic chilled mini-bar comprising: a cover; a movable compartment
translatable to expose an interior thereof from behind the cover; and a
cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment;
and an actuator coupled with at least one of a side of the integrated
entertainment equipment and the movable compartment, the actuator being
operable to translate the movable compartment.

13. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the
dynamic chilled mini-bar further comprising: a controller operable to
control the cooling device to maintain about a preset temperature in the
interior of the movable compartment.

14. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the
actuator comprising: a rotatable screw; and a bracket coupled with the
movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the
screw, wherein when the screw rotates, the movable compartment is
translated linearly.

15. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 14, wherein
when the screw rotates, the movable compartment is translated linearly in
parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

16. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the
actuator comprising: a screw; a motor operable to rotate the screw; and a
bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket
being coupled with the screw, wherein when the motor rotates the screw,
the movable compartment is translated linearly.

17. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 16, wherein
when the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment is translated
linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

18. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the
actuator comprising: a screw that is stationary; a nut that is rotatable
around the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a
first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut, wherein when the nut
rotates around the screw, the movable compartment is translated linearly.

19. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 18, wherein
when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable compartment is
translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the
screw.

20. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 12, the
actuator comprising: a screw that is stationary; a motor operable to
rotate a nut around the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable
compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the nut,
wherein when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable
compartment is translated linearly with the screw.

21. The piece of integrated entertainment equipment of claim 20, wherein
when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable compartment
is translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the
screw.

22. A method of operating a dynamic chilled mini-bar, the method
comprising: receiving an input signal to translate a movable compartment
of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second
position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar; and
linearly translating the movable compartment to the second position
according to the input signal.

23. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to
claim 22, wherein the second position is selected from the group
consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and
partially opened position.

24. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to
claim 23, wherein when the movable compartment is in the completely
stowed position, an interior of the movable compartment is completely
behind the cover.

25. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to
claim 23, wherein when the movable compartment is in the completely
opened position, a majority of an interior of the movable compartment is
exposed from behind the cover.

26. The method of operating the dynamic chilled mini-bar according to
claim 25, wherein when the movable compartment is in the partially opened
position, less of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from
behind the cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely
opened position.

Description:

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/614,640 entitled "DYNAMIC CHILLED MINI-BAR FOR
AIRCRAFT PASSENGER SUITE" and filed on Mar. 23, 2012, which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] 1. Field

[0003] Embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to aircraft
integrated entertainment equipment for a super first class interior
environment, and more specifically to integrated entertainment equipment
including a dynamic translational motion chilled mini-bar in an aircraft
super first class passenger suite.

[0004] 2. Related Art

[0005] Known mini-bars for use in aircraft passenger suites normally stand
on a floor of the passenger suites. Typically, the mini-bars have doors
that open outward and protrude into the passenger suites. To access these
mini-bars, passengers must first bend down to open the doors of the
mini-bars. To reach the food products or beverages contained within the
mini-bars, the passengers must hold the doors open while reaching inside
the mini-bars for the desired food or beverages.

[0006] These mini-bars that stand on the floor of aircraft passenger
suites can be very cumbersome for several reasons. Aircraft passenger
suites have limited space available. When the doors of the mini-bars are
opened, the doors swing outward into the passenger suites, and reduce the
space available in the suites. In addition, it is difficult for
passengers to access any food or beverage contained within these
mini-bars. When attempting to ascertain the contents of the mini-bars,
the passengers must bend down to the level of the mini-bars to hold the
doors open, which is an awkward position for the passengers to read the
labels of the food and beverages contained within the mini-bars.
Furthermore, when the ride is rough due to turbulence or other
disturbances, it can be unsafe for passengers to leave their seats to
access these mini-bars.

SUMMARY

[0007] Embodiments may overcome problems of the known mini-bars to
facilitate more space in aircraft passenger suites, maintain the
temperature of food products and beverages contained therein at the
required food storage temperature, and offer convenient access to food
and beverages at any position of passenger seating.

[0008] The mini-bars described herein provide the capability for the
dynamic chilled mini-bar to be movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment within an aircraft super first class passenger
suite. In an embodiment, the dynamic chilled mini-bar includes a cover, a
movable compartment, a beverage tray disposed within the movable
compartment, and an air-cooled thermoelectric cooling module attached to
the beverage tray through an opening at a bottom of the movable
compartment. The movable compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar is
slidably attached to a side or back of the integrated entertainment
equipment via an actuator. During operation, the actuator translates the
movable compartment along the side of the integrated entertainment
equipment. This way, no portion of the dynamic chilled mini-bar protrudes
into the passenger suite when opened compared to when closed, thus
facilitating more space in the passenger suite.

[0009] In various embodiments, the actuator translates the movable
compartment along the side of the integrated entertainment equipment and
may stop the movable compartment at various positions to provide access
to any food or beverage contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar.
With this configuration, a passenger, whether seated or standing, can
easily access any food or beverages contained within the dynamic chilled
mini-bar. Accordingly, the passenger can access the food or beverage
contained therein without the difficulties associated with a known
mini-bar, such as having to first open a door of the known mini-bar, and
then bending down to reach inside the known mini-bar.

[0010] In an embodiment, a dynamic chilled mini-bar includes: a cover; a
movable compartment translatable to expose an interior thereof from
behind the cover; and a cooling device operable to cool the interior of
the movable compartment.

[0011] The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include a beverage tray
disposed within the movable compartment, where the cooling device is
thermally coupled with the beverage tray through an opening at a bottom
of the movable compartment. The cooling device may cool a surface of the
beverage tray to cool the interior of the movable compartment. The
beverage tray may be constructed of a thermally conductive material.

[0012] The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include a controller
operable to control the cooling device to maintain about a preset
temperature in the interior of the movable compartment.

[0013] The cooling device may include a thermoelectric cooling module. The
thermoelectric cooling module may include: at least one thermoelectric
cooling device operable to cool the interior of the movable compartment;
a fan operable to circulate air from outside the thermoelectric cooling
module to the at least one thermoelectric cooling device to reject heat
from the thermoelectric cooling module to the outside; and a temperature
controller operable to control an amount of power delivered to the at
least one thermoelectric cooling device.

[0014] The dynamic chilled mini-bar may further include an actuator
operable to translate the movable compartment. The dynamic chilled
mini-bar may also include a controller that controls the actuator to
linearly translate the movable compartment from a first position to a
second position, where the second position is selected from the group
consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened position, and
partially opened position.

[0015] When the movable compartment is in the completely stowed position,
the interior of the movable compartment is completely behind the cover.
When the movable compartment is in the completely opened position, a
majority of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from
behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the partially opened
position, less of the interior of the movable compartment is exposed from
behind the cover than when the movable compartment is in the completely
opened position.

[0016] In another embodiment, a piece of integrated entertainment
equipment in a vehicle includes: a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably
installed on the integrated entertainment; and an actuator coupled with
at least one of a side of the integrated entertainment equipment and the
movable compartment, the actuator being operable to translate the movable
compartment.

[0017] The actuator may include: a rotatable screw; and a bracket coupled
with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled
with the screw. When the screw rotates, the movable compartment may be
translated linearly. Furthermore, when the screw rotates, the movable
compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise
direction of the screw.

[0018] In another embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw; a motor
operable to rotate the screw; and a bracket coupled with the movable
compartment, a first end of the bracket being coupled with the screw.
When the motor rotates the screw, the movable compartment may be
translated linearly. Furthermore, when the motor rotates the screw, the
movable compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a
length-wise direction of the screw.

[0019] In yet another embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw that
is stationary; a nut that is rotatable around the screw; and a bracket
coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket being
coupled with the nut. When the nut rotates around the screw, the movable
compartment may be translated linearly. Furthermore, when the nut rotates
around the screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly in
parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw.

[0020] In an embodiment, the actuator may include: a screw that is
stationary; a motor operable to rotate a nut around the screw; and a
bracket coupled with the movable compartment, a first end of the bracket
being coupled with the nut. When the motor rotates the nut around the
screw, the movable compartment may be translated linearly with the screw.
Furthermore, when the motor rotates the nut around the screw, the movable
compartment may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise
direction of the screw.

[0021] In yet another embodiment, a method of operating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar includes: receiving an input signal to translate a movable
compartment of the dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a
second position with respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar;
and linearly translating the movable compartment to the second position
according to the input signal.

[0022] While the exemplary embodiments described herein are presented in
the context of a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment in a super first class passenger suite, these
embodiments are exemplary only and are not to be considered limiting. The
embodiments of the apparatus and configuration are not limited to dynamic
chilled mini-bars. For example, embodiments of the apparatus and
configuration may be adapted for a refrigerator, freezer, and other food
storage and cooking devices. As another example, embodiments of the
apparatus and configuration may be adapted to fit within other sizes or
areas in an aircraft, vehicle, or other confined space. Various
embodiments may thus be used in any vehicle, including aircraft,
spacecraft, ships, buses, trains, recreational vehicles, trucks,
automobiles, and the like. Embodiments of the apparatus may also be used
in homes, offices, hotels, factories, warehouses, garages, and other
buildings where it may be desirable to use a dynamic chilled mini-bar.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The above and other features and advantages of the invention will
become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments
thereof with reference to the attached drawings listed below:

[0024] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment
in a super first class passenger suite, according to an embodiment.

[0025]FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar with a cover, according to an embodiment.

[0026]FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar including a beverage tray and beverages disposed therein,
according to an embodiment.

[0027]FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment,
according to an embodiment.

[0028] FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled
mini-bar of FIG. 4 during operation, according to an embodiment.

[0029]FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a bottom view
illustrating a beverage tray of a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to
an embodiment.

[0030]FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar with a cover movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment, according to an embodiment.

[0031]FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric cooling
module of the dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an
embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 9A is a top view, FIG. 9B is a side view, FIG. 9c is a bottom
view, and FIG. 9D is another side view illustrating the thermoelectric
cooling module of FIG. 8.

[0033] FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a bottom view, and FIG.
10C is a side view illustrating a power supply of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

[0034]FIG. 11A is a perspective view, FIG. 11B is a top view, and FIG.
11C a side view illustrating a temperature controller of the dynamic
chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

[0035]FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a controller for the
dynamic chilled mini-bar of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment.

[0036]FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an actuator that
translates a dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment.

[0037] FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar being translated by the actuator of FIG. 13 during
operation.

[0038] FIGS. 15A-15C are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment during
operation, according to an embodiment.

[0039] FIGS. 16A and 16B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment
during operation, according to another embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 18A is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment.

[0042] FIGS. 18B and 18C are flowcharts illustrating a method of
translating a movable compartment of a dynamic chilled mini-bar,
according various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] As described herein, a dynamic chilled mini-bar may be movably
installed on integrated entertainment equipment within an aircraft super
first class passenger suite. In an embodiment, the dynamic chilled
mini-bar may include a cover, a movable compartment, a beverage tray
disposed within the movable compartment, a thermoelectric cooling module
thermally coupled with the beverage tray, a power supply, a temperature
controller, and an actuator. The movable compartment of the dynamic
chilled mini-bar may be slidably attached to a side or back of the
integrated entertainment equipment via the actuator. In various
embodiments, the actuator translates the movable compartment along the
side or the back of the integrated entertainment equipment to emerge from
behind the cover, and may stop the movable compartment at various
positions to provide access to any food or beverage contained within the
dynamic chilled mini-bar. With this configuration, a passenger, whether
seated or standing, can easily access any food or beverages contained
within the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Accordingly, the passenger can
access the food or beverage within the dynamic chilled mini-bar without
the difficulties associated with a known mini-bar, such as having to
first open a door of the known mini-bar, and then bending down to reach
inside the known mini-bar. Furthermore, no portion of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar protrudes into the passenger suite when opened compared to when
closed, thus facilitating more space in the passenger suite.

[0044] FIGS. 1A and 1B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment 110 in a super first class passenger suite 100, according to an
embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
includes a cover 210 and a movable compartment 220. The cover 210 may be
opaque to match the facade of the integrated entertainment equipment 110,
or transparent (as shown in FIG. 2) to provide passengers with a view of
any contents within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. As shown in FIG.
1B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is translated to an open position,
so that passengers may easily access beverages 300. Furthermore, the
cover 210 may be opened or removed to facilitate maintenance and
cleaning.

[0045]FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 with a cover 210, according to an embodiment. As illustrated
in FIG. 2, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a
movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230 disposed within the movable
compartment 220, and a thermoelectric cooling module 240 thermally
coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an opening at a bottom of the
movable compartment 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the
thermoelectric cooling module 240 distributes cool temperatures across a
surface of the beverage tray 230, and in turn, the beverage tray 230
cools contents contained within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. Because
the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is thermally coupled with and
directly attached to the beverage tray 230, the contents contained
therein are chilled regardless of whether the dynamic chilled mini-bar
200 is in an open position as shown in FIG. 1B or in a stowed position as
shown in FIG. 2.

[0046]FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 including a beverage tray 230 and beverages 300 disposed
therein, according to an embodiment. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
includes a movable compartment 220 and a beverage tray 230 disposed
within the movable compartment 220. The beverage tray 230 holds beverages
300 within the movable compartment 220 and cools the beverages 300 using
a thermoelectric cooling module 240 (as shown in FIG. 2).

[0047]FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110,
according to an embodiment. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage
tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220, a thermoelectric
cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through
an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220, a power supply
250, a temperature controller 260, and a power cord retainer 270. The
power supply 250 may provide power to the thermoelectric cooling module
240, the temperature controller 260, and an actuator (see FIGS. 13, 14A,
and 14B). The power cord retainer 270 contains a power cord (271 in FIG.
5B), and an end of the power cord is connected to the thermoelectric
cooling module 240.

[0048] FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 of FIG. 4 during operation, according to an embodiment. In
FIG. 5A, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed
position, where the cover 210 completely covers a front opening and an
interior of the movable compartment 220. The thermoelectric cooling
module 240 is disposed at the bottom of the movable compartment 220 and
is thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230. The power supply 250,
the temperature controller 260, and the power cord retainer 270 are
disposed adjacent to a bottom of the integrated entertainment equipment
110.

[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is
translated to a partially open position. The movable compartment 220 is
translated vertically upward so the front opening and the interior of the
movable compartment 220 are partially exposed or not covered by the cover
210. Since the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is thermally coupled
with the beverage tray 230 and disposed at the bottom of the movable
compartment 220, when the movable compartment 220 is translated along a
side or back of the integrated entertainment equipment 110, the
thermoelectric cooling module 240 is also translated along with the
movable compartment 220. The power cord 271, which is connected to the
thermoelectric cooling module 240, extends out of the power cord retainer
270 when the thermoelectric cooling module 240 is translated along with
the movable compartment 220. This way, the power cord 271 may transfer
power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 regardless of the position
of the movable compartment 220.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 5c, the movable compartment 220 is translated into
a completely opened position, so that a majority of the front opening and
the interior of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or not covered by
the cover 210. On the other hand, when the movable compartment 220 is
translated to a partially opened position as shown in FIG. 5B, less of
the interior of the movable compartment 220 is exposed from behind the
cover 210 than when the movable compartment 220 is in the completely
opened position as shown in FIG. 5c. Because the thermoelectric cooling
module 240 is configured to translate along with the movable compartment
220, even if the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is left open for an
extended period of time in the partially opened position or in the
completely opened position, the thermoelectric cooling module 240 can
continuously cool the beverage tray 230, which would keep any food or
beverages disposed on the beverage tray 230 chilled and fresh.

[0051]FIG. 6A is a perspective view and FIG. 6B is a bottom view
illustrating a beverage tray 230 of a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200,
according to an embodiment. FIG. 6A illustrates a beverage tray 230
movably disposed within a movable compartment 220. A bottom of the
movable compartment 220 includes an opening 221 configured to fit a
thermoelectric cooling module 240 that may be thermally coupled with the
beverage tray 230. The beverage tray 230 may be constructed of a water
tight metallic material, but this should not be construed as limiting.
The beverage tray 230 may be constructed using other thermally conductive
materials as known in the art. The beverage tray 230 may further include
a lip along edges of the beverage tray 230 to help secure any food or
beverages disposed thereon. The beverage tray 230 may evenly distribute
chilled temperature across a surface that contacts the beverages and food
products. Furthermore, the beverage tray 230 may collect any
condensation, spills, or leakages from the beverages or food products to
facilitate maintenance and cleaning In various embodiments, the beverage
tray 230 may be decoupled from the thermoelectric cooling module 240 and
removed from the movable compartment 220 to be cleaned.

[0052] FIG. 6B is a bottom view illustrating a beverage tray 230 of a
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an embodiment. The beverage
tray 230 includes an area 231 for coupling with the thermoelectric
cooling module 240. When coupled with or attached to the thermoelectric
cooling module 240, the surface of the beverage tray 230 provides cooling
contact with beverages or food products. Through packaging of the
beverages and the food products, heat transfers from the beverages and
food products to the beverage tray 230 and the thermoelectric cooling
module 240, and thus the beverages and food products are chilled and
cooled by the beverage tray 230 and the thermoelectric cooling module
240.

[0053]FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 with a cover 210 movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment 110, according to an embodiment. The dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 may be movably installed on a side or back of the
integrated entertainment equipment 110. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage tray 230
disposed within the movable compartment 220, a thermoelectric cooling
module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through an
opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220, a power supply 250, a
temperature controller 260, and a power cord retainer 270. The power
supply 250 may provide power to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 and
the temperature controller 260. The power cord retainer 270 houses a
power cord, and an end of the power cord is connected to the
thermoelectric cooling module 240.

[0054]FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a thermoelectric cooling
module 240 of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an
embodiment. The thermoelectric cooling module 240 includes a fan 241, a
connector 242, and at least one thermoelectric cooling device housed
inside the thermoelectric cooling module 240. The fan 241 circulates air
from an aircraft cabin or passenger suite to the at least one
thermoelectric cooling device inside the thermoelectric cooling module
240, and rejects heat from the thermoelectric cooling module 240 back
into the aircraft cabin or passenger suite. The connector 242 may be
connected to a power cord, for example, the power cord 271 as shown in
FIG. 5B, to supply power to the fan 241 and the at least one
thermoelectric cooling device.

[0055] FIG. 9A is a top view, FIG. 9B is a side view, FIG. 9c is a bottom
view, and FIG. 9D is another side view illustrating the thermoelectric
cooling module 240 of FIG. 8. FIG. 9A illustrates a top view of the
thermoelectric cooling module 240 of FIG. 8. The thermoelectric cooling
module 240 includes a fan 241, a connector 242, and at least one
thermoelectric cooling device. FIG. 9B illustrates a side view of the
thermoelectric cooling module 240. A housing of the thermoelectric
cooling module 240 contains the at least one thermoelectric cooling
device. FIG. 9c illustrates a bottom view of the thermoelectric cooling
module 240. A bottom side of the thermoelectric cooling module 240 may be
thermally coupled with or attached to the beverage tray 230 to distribute
cool temperature across a surface of the beverage tray 230. FIG. 9D
illustrates another side view of the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

[0056] FIG. 10A is a perspective view, FIG. 10B is a bottom view, and FIG.
10C is a side view illustrating a power supply 250 of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. FIG. 10A illustrates
the power supply 250, which provides power to the thermoelectric cooling
module 240 as shown in FIG. 8, the temperature controller 260, and an
actuator that translates the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The power
supply 250 converts aircraft AC (alternating current) power supply to DC
(direct current) power supply. In other embodiments, the power supply 250
may convert AC current, voltage, or power to DC current, voltage, or
power, respectively. The power supply 250 includes a housing 251 and
terminal pins 252. The terminal pins 252 may provide ground, input, and
output connections between the power supply 250 and other devices.
Additionally, the power supply 250 may be attached or mounted to the
integrated entertainment equipment 110, but this should not be construed
as limiting. FIG. 10B illustrates a bottom view of the power supply 250.
FIG. 10C illustrates a side view of the power supply 250. In an
embodiment, the power supply 250 may input 120 Vac at 60 Hz and output
12Vdc, 12 A.

[0057]FIG. 11A is a perspective view, FIG. 11B is a top view, and FIG.
11C a side view illustrating a temperature controller 260 of the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. FIG. 11A
illustrates the temperature controller 260, which monitors and controls
the temperature in the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The temperature
controller 260 may include dials 261 to adjust settings, for example,
temperature, voltage, and fan speed of the thermoelectric cooling module
240. The temperature controller 260 may control an amount of power
delivered to the thermoelectric cooling module 240. This operation may be
performed using a pulse-width modulation (PWM) technique. For example, a
high current output of 12Vdc, 24 A at 25 degrees Celsius may be provided
to the thermoelectric cooling module 240 according to a PWM signal. A
safety device for temperature protection may also be included in the
temperature controller 260.

[0058]FIG. 11B illustrates a top view of the temperature controller 260.
FIG. 11c illustrates a side view of the temperature controller 260. The
temperature controller 260 may be connected to the power supply 250.
Alternatively, the temperature controller 260 and the power supply 250
may be housed together as one component.

[0059]FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a controller 1200 that controls the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment. The
controller 1200 may supplement or replace the temperature controller 260.
The controller 1200 may be installed on the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
or the integrated entertainment equipment 110. The controller 1200 may be
coupled with a control panel 1240 via an I/O interface 1230. The
controller 1200 may receive input commands from a user via the control
panel 1240, such as turning the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 on or off,
selecting an operation mode, translating the movable compartment 220 into
an opened or stowed position, and setting a desired temperature of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The controller 1200 may output information
to the user regarding an operational status (e.g., operational mode,
activation of a defrost cycle, shut-off due to over-temperature
conditions of the movable compartment 220 and/or components of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, etc.) of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
using a display of the control panel 1240. The control panel 1240 may be
installed on or remotely from embodiments of the dynamic chilled mini-bar
and integrated entertainment equipment with which the controller 1200 may
be coupled.

[0060] The controller 1200 may include a processor 1210 that performs
computations according to program instructions, a memory 1220 that stores
the computing instructions and other data used or generated by the
processor 1210, and a network interface 1250 that includes data
communications circuitry for interfacing to a data communications network
1290 such as Ethernet, Galley Data Bus (GAN), or Controller Area Network
(CAN). The processor 1210 may include a microprocessor, a Field
Programmable Gate Array, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit, or a
custom Very Large Scale Integrated circuit chip, or other electronic
circuitry that performs a control function. The processor 1210 may also
include a state machine. The controller 1200 may also include one or more
electronic circuits and printed circuit boards. The processor 1210,
memory 1220, and network interface 1250 may be coupled with one another
using one or more data buses 1280. The controller 1200 may communicate
with and control various sensors and actuators 1270 of the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 via a control interface 1260.

[0061] The controller 1200 may be controlled by or communicate with a
centralized computing system, such as one onboard an aircraft. The
controller 1200 may implement a compliant ARINC 812 logical communication
interface on a compliant ARINC 810 physical interface. The controller
1200 may communicate via the Galley Data Bus (e.g., galley networked GAN
bus), and exchange data with a Galley Network Controller (e.g., Master
GAIN Control Unit as described in the ARINC 812 specification). In
accordance with the ARINC 812 specification, the controller 1200 may
provide network monitoring, power control, remote operation, failure
monitoring, and data transfer functions. The controller 1200 may
implement menu definitions requests received from the Galley Network
Controller (GNC) for presentation on a GNC Touchpanel display device and
process associated button push events to respond appropriately. The
controller 1200 may provide additional communications using an RS-232
communications interface and/or an infrared data port, such as
communications with a personal computer (PC) or a personal digital
assistant (PDA). Such additional communications may include real-time
monitoring of operations of the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, long-term
data retrieval, and control system software upgrades. In addition, the
control interface 1260 may include a serial peripheral interface (SPI)
bus that may be used to communicate between the controller 1200 and motor
controllers within the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200.

[0062] The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is configured to chill and/or
refrigerate beverages and/or food products which are placed in the
movable compartment 220. The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may operate in
one or more of several modes, including refrigeration and beverage
chilling. A user may select a desired temperature for the movable
compartment 220 using the control panel 1240. The controller 1200
included with the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may control a temperature
within the movable compartment 220 at a high level of precision according
to the desired temperature. Therefore, quality of beverages and/or food
products stored within the movable compartment 220 may be maintained
according to the user-selected operational mode of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200.

[0063] In various embodiments, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may
maintain a temperature inside the movable compartment 220 according to a
user-selectable option among several preprogrammed preset temperatures,
or according to a specific user-input preset temperature. For example, a
beverage chiller mode may maintain the temperature inside the movable
compartment 220 at a user-selectable temperature of about 9 degrees
centigrade (C), 12 degrees C., or 16 degrees C. In a refrigerator mode,
the temperature inside the movable compartment 220 may be maintained at a
user-selectable temperature of about 4 degrees C. or 7 degrees C.

[0064] The dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be controlled by an electronic
control system associated with the controller 1200. The memory 1220 of
the controller 1200 may store a program for performing a method of
controlling the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 executable by the processor
1210. The method of controlling the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
performed by the electronic control system may include a feedback control
system such that the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may automatically
maintain a prescribed temperature in the movable compartment 220 of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 using sensor data, such as temperature, to
control the thermoelectric cooling module 240.

[0065]FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating an actuator 280 that
translates a dynamic chilled mini-bar 200, according to an embodiment. As
illustrated in FIG. 13, the actuator 280 is disposed on a side or back of
integrated entertainment equipment 110. The actuator 280 may be an
electromechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or other actuators
known in the art. Furthermore, the actuator 280 may be operated using a
controller, for example, the controller 1200 as shown in FIG. 12, an
electrical controller, an electromechanical controller, or other
controllers known in the art. In other embodiments, the function of the
actuator 280 may be performed manually. The controller that controls the
actuator 280 may be installed on the integrated entertainment equipment
110 or on the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200. The controller may receive
input commands from a user via input devices to translate the movable
compartment 220 to an opened or stowed position.

[0066] The actuator 280 may include a bracket 281 and a screw 283. The
actuator 280 converts rotary motion, such as that of a motor, into linear
displacement via the screw 283, with which the dynamic chilled mini-bar
200 is coupled. The bracket 281 may be movably coupled with the screw 283
and to a side of the movable compartment 220 of the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200. Accordingly, when the motor of the actuator 280 rotates the
screw, the movable compartment 220 that is coupled to the bracket 281 is
translated linearly. This should not be construed as limiting. For
example, in other embodiments, the screw 283 may be stationary, while the
motor of actuator 280 rotates a nut around the screw 283, and the bracket
281 is coupled with the nut rather than the screw 283. In yet other
embodiments, the actuator 280 may be operated manually using a rotatable
screw or by rotating a nut around a stationary screw. Furthermore, when
the screw rotates, the movable compartment 220 may be translated linearly
in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw. In other
embodiments, when the nut rotates around the screw, the movable
compartment 220 may be translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise
direction of the screw.

[0067] FIGS. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 being translated by the actuator 280 of FIG. 13
during operation. As illustrated in FIG. 14A, the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 is in a stowed position. A side of the movable compartment
220 is coupled with or attached to the bracket 281. A first end of the
bracket 281 is coupled with the screw 283, and a second end of the
bracket 281 is coupled with a rail 282 to stabilize the bracket 281 and
to support a combined weight of the movable compartment 220, the beverage
tray 230, and the beverages 300.

[0068] In FIG. 14B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 is translated
vertically upward along the side of the integrated entertainment
equipment 110 by the actuator 280. When the screw 283 is rotated, either
by a motor or manually, the bracket 281 is moved vertically along an axis
parallel to a length-wise direction of the screw. Accordingly, the
movable compartment 220 disposed on the bracket 281 is translated along
the same vertical axis. As shown in FIG. 14B, the movable compartment 220
is translated into an opened position, where the beverage tray 230 and
the beverages 300 are accessible to passengers. Although the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 is shown to be moving along a vertical axis, the
described embodiment should not be construed as limiting. In other
embodiments, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be translated along a
horizontal or diagonal axis. The movable compartment 220 may be
translated linearly in parallel with a length-wise direction of the screw
283.

[0069] FIGS. 15A-15C are perspective views illustrating a dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment equipment 110
during operation, according to an embodiment. The dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 includes a cover 210, a movable compartment 220, a beverage
tray 230 disposed within the movable compartment 220, a thermoelectric
cooling module 240 thermally coupled with the beverage tray 230 through
an opening at a bottom of the movable compartment 220, and a power cord
retainer 270 disposed adjacent to a bottom of the integrated
entertainment equipment 110. As illustrated in FIG. 15A, the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed position, where the cover
210 completely covers a front opening and interior of the movable
compartment 220. As shown in FIG. 15B, the movable compartment 220 is
translated into a partially opened position, where an upper half of the
front opening of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or not covered by
the cover 210. FIG. 15c illustrates the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200
translated into a completely opened position, where a majority of the
front opening and interior of the movable compartment 220 is exposed or
not covered by the cover 210. Passengers may gain access to any contents
in the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 when the movable compartment 220 is
in a partially opened position as shown in FIG. 15B or in a completely
opened position as illustrated in FIG. 15c. In addition, the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 220 may be stopped at any desired position between the
completely stowed position and the completely opened position.

[0070] FIGS. 16A and 16B are perspective views illustrating a dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 movably installed on integrated entertainment
equipment 110 during operation, according to another embodiment. FIGS.
17A and 17B are perspective views illustrating the dynamic chilled
mini-bar 200 of FIGS. 16A and 16B. As shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 17A, and
17B, the dynamic chilled mini-bar 200 may be integrated into the
integrated entertainment equipment 110. In FIGS. 16A and 17A, the dynamic
chilled mini-bar 200 is in a completely stowed position. In FIGS. 16B and
17B, the movable compartment 220 of the mini-bar 200 is translated into a
completely opened position to expose the beverage tray 230 which holds
the beverages 300. With this configuration, a passenger, whether seated
or standing, can easily access any food or beverages contained within the
dynamic chilled mini-bar 20. Furthermore, the dynamic chilled mini-bar
200 does not protrude into a super first class passenger suite 100 when
opened compared to when closed, thus facilitating more space in the super
first class passenger suite 100.

[0071] FIG. 18A is a flowchart illustrating a method of operating a
dynamic chilled mini-bar, according to an embodiment. In step S1802, an
input signal is received to translate a movable compartment of the
dynamic chilled mini-bar from a first position to a second position with
respect to a cover of the dynamic chilled mini-bar. Then in step S1804,
the movable compartment is linearly translated to the second position
according to the input signal. The second position may be selected from
the group consisting of completely stowed position, completely opened
position, and partially opened position. When the movable compartment is
in the completely stowed position, an interior of the movable compartment
is completely behind the cover. When the movable compartment is in the
completely opened position, a majority of an interior of the movable
compartment is exposed from behind the cover. When the movable
compartment is in the partially opened position, less of the interior of
the movable compartment is exposed from behind the cover than when the
movable compartment is in the completely opened position. The group of
positions may be preprogrammed or preset prior to operating the dynamic
chilled mini-bar. Alternatively, the second position may be specified by
a user during operation.

[0072] FIGS. 18B and 18C are flowcharts illustrating a method of
translating a movable compartment of a dynamic chilled mini-bar,
according various embodiments. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18B,
a screw is rotated in step S1804-2. The screw may be rotated by a motor
or through manual operation. Then in step S1804-4, the rotary motion of
the screw is converted to linear motion, and the movable compartment is
linearly translated in parallel with a length-wise direction of the
screw. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18c, a nut is rotated around
a stationary screw in step S1804-6. The nut may be rotated around the
screw by a motor or through manual operation. Then in step S1804-8, the
rotary motion of the nut around the screw is converted to linear motion,
and the movable compartment is linearly translated in parallel with a
length-wise direction of the screw.

[0073] While the exemplary embodiments described herein are presented in
the context of a dynamic chilled mini-bar movably installed on integrated
entertainment equipment in a super first class passenger suite, these
embodiments are exemplary only and are not to be considered limiting. The
embodiments of the apparatus and configuration are not limited to dynamic
chilled mini-bars. For example, embodiments of the apparatus and
configuration may be adapted for a refrigerator, freezer, and other food
storage and cooking devices. As another example, embodiments of the
apparatus and configuration may be adapted to fit within other sizes or
areas in an aircraft or vehicle. Various embodiments may thus be used in
any vehicle, including aircraft, spacecraft, ships, buses, trains,
recreational vehicles, trucks, automobiles, and the like. Embodiments of
the apparatus may also be used in homes, offices, hotels, factories,
warehouses, garages, and other buildings where it may be desirable to use
a dynamic chilled mini-bar.

[0074] All references, including publications, patent applications, and
patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same
extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated
to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety
herein.

[0075] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of
the invention, reference has been made to the embodiments illustrated in
the drawings, and specific language has been used to describe these
embodiments. However, no limitation of the scope of the invention is
intended by this specific language, and the invention should be construed
to encompass all embodiments that would normally occur to one of ordinary
skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of
describing the particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting
of exemplary embodiments of the invention. In the description of the
embodiments, certain detailed explanations of related art are omitted
when it is deemed that they may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the
invention.

[0076] The apparatus described herein may comprise a processor, a memory
for storing program data to be executed by the processor, a permanent
storage such as a disk drive, a communications port for handling
communications with external devices, and user interface devices,
including a display, touch panel, keys, buttons, etc. When software
modules are involved, these software modules may be stored as program
instructions or computer readable code executable by the processor on a
non-transitory computer-readable media such as magnetic storage media
(e.g., magnetic tapes, hard disks, floppy disks), optical recording media
(e.g., CD-ROMs, Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), etc.), and solid state
memory (e.g., random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), static
random-access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only
memory (EEPROM), flash memory, thumb drives, etc.). The computer readable
recording media may also be distributed over network coupled computer
systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a
distributed fashion. This computer readable recording media may be read
by the computer, stored in the memory, and executed by the processor.

[0077] Also, using the disclosure herein, programmers of ordinary skill in
the art to which the invention pertains may easily implement functional
programs, codes, and code segments for making and using the invention.

[0078] The invention may be described in terms of functional block
components and various processing steps. Such functional blocks may be
realized by any number of hardware and/or software components configured
to perform the specified functions. For example, the invention may employ
various integrated circuit components, e.g., memory elements, processing
elements, logic elements, look-up tables, and the like, which may carry
out a variety of functions under the control of one or more
microprocessors or other control devices. Similarly, where the elements
of the invention are implemented using software programming or software
elements, the invention may be implemented with any programming or
scripting language such as C, C++, JAVA®, assembler, or the like,
with the various algorithms being implemented with any combination of
data structures, objects, processes, routines or other programming
elements. Functional aspects may be implemented in algorithms that
execute on one or more processors. Furthermore, the invention may employ
any number of conventional techniques for electronics configuration,
signal processing and/or control, data processing and the like. Finally,
the steps of all methods described herein may be performed in any
suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly
contradicted by context.

[0079] For the sake of brevity, conventional electronics, control systems,
software development and other functional aspects of the systems (and
components of the individual operating components of the systems) may not
be described in detail. Furthermore, the connecting lines, or connectors
shown in the various figures presented are intended to represent
exemplary functional relationships and/or physical or logical couplings
between the various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or
additional functional relationships, physical connections or logical
connections may be present in a practical device. The words "mechanism",
"element", "unit", "structure", "means", and "construction" are used
broadly and are not limited to mechanical or physical embodiments, but
may include software routines in conjunction with processors, etc.

[0080] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., "such
as") provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the
invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention
unless otherwise claimed. Numerous modifications and adaptations will be
readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in this art without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following
claims. Therefore, the scope of the invention is defined not by the
detailed description of the invention but by the following claims, and
all differences within the scope will be construed as being included in
the invention.

[0081] No item or component is essential to the practice of the invention
unless the element is specifically described as "essential" or
"critical". It will also be recognized that the terms "comprises,"
"comprising," "includes," "including," "has," and "having," as used
herein, are specifically intended to be read as open-ended terms of art.
The use of the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar referents in the
context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the
following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the
plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, it
should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc. may
be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be
limited by these terms, which are only used to distinguish one element
from another. Furthermore, recitation of ranges of values herein are
merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually
to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise
indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the
specification as if it were individually recited herein.